Book of Matthew - Chapter 10 - Verse 2

In this verse from the Gospel of Matthew, the names of the twelve apostles appointed by Jesus are listed. Each of the apostles played a significant role in spreading the teachings of Jesus and establishing the foundation of the Christian faith. The first apostle mentioned is Simon, who was also known as Peter, meaning "rock." Peter was a central figure among the apostles, often serving as a spokesman for the group. Andrew, Simon's brother, was also chosen by Jesus to be one of his twelve disciples. James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John were also part of the inner circle of Jesus, being present at significant events such as the Transfiguration and the Agony in the Garden. This list of apostles signifies the diversity among Jesus' followers and the unique roles each of them played in spreading the message of salvation.

In this verse, we see the names of the twelve apostles listed by Matthew. It is interesting to note that Simon, who is listed first in the verse, is also called Peter. This name change is significant as it symbolizes Peter's role as the foundation of the early Christian church. The name Peter comes from the Greek word 'petros,' which means 'rock,' emphasizing Peter's steadfastness and leadership within the group of apostles. Additionally, the mention of Andrew as Simon Peter's brother highlights the close relationships among the apostles, showing that they were not only colleagues but also family members. The inclusion of James and John, the sons of Zebedee, further emphasizes the familial connections within the group. This list of names serves as a reminder of the diverse backgrounds and personalities of the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus to spread His message.